His professional accomplishments
“I have had the opportunity to work with researchers from other institutions in the U.S., China and Pakistan, understanding and studying the effects of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs). At the present, I have four peer-reviewed manuscripts published with three more in preparation.”
Why did Preston choose his program?
“My B.S. in chemistry gave me a wide purview of my field, allowing me pursue options within. It touched base with many subfields, but left me without an in-depth knowledge of any particular field. I choose to continue with my M.S. to rectify this by specializing in my field of choice (environmental chemistry), in order that I may become well-versed and proficient, thus, mastering my field that I am in.”
Why choose MSU for graduate education?
“I was motivated by the thrill of the discovery process [chemistry] and having a passion for helping others. I wanted to make science education accessible for everyone and see the spark in student’s faces. A M.S. in Chemistry would allow me to showcase the excitement of chemistry to students, but would allow me to advance our field through research too.”
Favorite class/professor
“Advanced Topics in Analytical Chemistry (CHM 702) with Dr. Erich Steinle. We learned topics from electroanalytical methods, to nanotechnology, and even mass spectrometry instruments. My favorite instrument learned was MALDI-TOF MS (Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry). It is an analytical technique that uses a laser to ionize molecules from a sample embedded in a matrix and measures their mass-to-charge ratio.”
Overcoming challenges
“The most challenging aspect of any graduate degree is the advancement for personal growth. Education is not just about academic and professional learning; it goes above and beyond conventional domains aiding in personal growth. The M.S. requires determination, commitment and resolve — and having a support system who treats you with kindness and respect, and having your best interests at heart is vital. I would not have gotten far without the support of my colleagues (Acacia, Carissa and Iqra), the faculty in the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department (i.e. Dr. Cyren Rico) and my family.”
Memorable experiences at Missouri State
“There were many memorable experiences as a graduate student that I cannot choose one. I have really enjoyed the many conversations that I have had with my students, colleagues and the faculty in the department.”
His graduate education is preparing him for his future
“Missouri State has shown me that there is always room for improvement, even outside of the school setting. My M.S. has polished my analytical and critical thinking, time management and reasoning skills, which will play a decisive role in my future career. At the moment, this has been to further my education even more as I will begin my doctorate degree at UCLA this coming fall.”
Advice for upcoming #GradBears
“If you are considering a graduate degree in STEM, I would highly encourage you to do undergraduate research, or at least start your research as soon as possible. It would give you the opportunity to learn about something that interests you most and take ownership of the thought, discovery and delivery of new ideas to your field of study.”